Matt Golinski on road to recovery

BURNS victim Matt Golinski has made significant steps in his recovery.

Matt's tracheal tube has recently been removed, he is eating solid foods and he is now walking short distances in hospital.

He is still undergoing intensive rehabilitation work including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, pain management and counselling.

It has been 16 weeks since the Boxing Day 2011 home fire which claimed the lives of Matt's wife, Rachael, and children Starlia, Willow and Sage.

Matt survived, but suffered third degree burns sustained to 40 per cent of his body.

Although making sound progress, Matt is expected to remain in the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital burns unit for some time yet.

Matt's father, Keith Golinski said that his son was displaying much determination and courage with his physical recovery.

"Even though it is painful and exhausting, Matt is really throwing everything into his physical recovery at present," Keith said.

"He is working very hard in his therapy to regain his body's strength and to be a bit more independent.

"The hospital team say that he is a model patient and we can all see how determined he is to get well enough to leave hospital and begin the next chapter of his life.

"On behalf of Matt, his family and friends we are all so grateful to the hospital team for providing such excellent treatment and care for him. We cannot thank them enough. They are truly the unsung heroes in our society."

Keith said that as a result of Matt losing his home to the blaze that tragically claimed the lives of Matt's wife and three children that Matt would probably return to the Sunshine Coast to live with him.

Matt will require ongoing therapy after leaving hospital and special arrangements will be made at Keith's home to accommodate Matt's condition.

Keith said that Matt was still processing the emotions of losing his wife and three children.

"It's still hard to believe that Rachael and the girls are not with us and I think that as Matt gets physically stronger that his body will start to cope better with the emotional side of things."

"I think it's still all a bit surreal at present and Matt has been completely overwhelmed with the level of support that has been directed toward him since the accident such as the cards, letters, events and fundraising initiatives like Plates for Mates."

"Knowing that everyone is truly there for him and wishing him back to wellness has made a significant, positive impact on his progress."